leaders

AXADLE, Somalia, July 5 – In a significant development, Northeastern State defense forces have announced the elimination of seven pivotal Islamic State (ISIS) leaders. This achievement marks a considerable stride in their ongoing mission to diminish the jihadist group's foothold in the rugged Calmiskaad mountains of the Bari region. But what does this mean for the broader fight against extremism in Somalia? A question that lingers in the minds of many. The operation, aptly named Hilaac, is now well into its fourth…

Mogadishu (AX) – In a strategic military operation that reflects both resilience and determination, the Somali National Army (SNA), alongside the local Macawisley militia, has successfully neutralized two senior leaders of the Al-Shabaab militant group. The operation took place in the Guulane area of the Middle Shabelle region and was confirmed by military sources on Friday. The targeted individuals have been identified as Ali Abuukar Mohamed Saaqle, better known as Ali Habad, and Mohamed Addow Isse. Both men were…

Upcoming US-Africa Summit: A New Chapter in Relations The anticipation surrounding the upcoming summit in Washington is palpable, as media outlets such as Semafor and Africa Intelligence confirm that heads of state from several Western and Central African nations will convene for an important dialogue. This summit promises to tackle pressing issues like trade, regional security, and investment opportunities that could dramatically reshape U.S.-Africa relations. Among the notable attendees is former President…

Somalia at 65: Celebrating Resilience Amidst Challenges MOGADISHU, Somalia - June 26 marks a momentous occasion as the Federal Republic of Somalia proudly commemorates its 65th anniversary of independence. Throughout the country, the vibrant flutter of flags serves as a testament to the unwavering spirit and resilience of its people, even as they continue to navigate complex security challenges and political hurdles. Yet, amidst this celebration, Somalia faces a poignant reality. The resurgence of Al-Shabaab has seen the…

Mogadishu (AX) — In a profound moment of loss, Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre, and Speaker of the House of the People, Sheikh Adan Mohamed Nur (Madobe), have come forward to extend their heartfelt condolences on the passing of Sultan Abdiqadir Haji Mahmoud, who served as the Second Vice President of Jubbaland State. President Mohamud took a moment to reflect on the life of the late Sultan, paying homage to him as a revered elder whose contributions to peacebuilding, national…

In a significant legal setback, the African Union Court on Human and Peoples' Rights has dismissed a petition from former president Laurent Gbagbo and ex-prime minister Guillaume Soro. They sought to annul a ban preventing them from participating in Côte d’Ivoire's imminent election, a crucial political event. Both Gbagbo and Soro contended that the Ivoirian judicial system infringed upon their rights, a claim that they believed warranted the court’s urgent attention. However, the court’s ruling on Thursday underscored a…

The recent Africa Technology Expo (ATE) 2025 held at the Landmark Event Center served as a compelling backdrop for a significant convergence of visionaries in the tech industry. Imagine a space buzzing with innovators, C-suite executives, and key decision-makers—all intent on unearthing the vast potential embedded within Africa’s rapidly evolving technology landscape. This year's program was nothing short of resplendent, marked by an intricate tapestry of keynote addresses, engaging investor sessions,…

Somalia: President Hassan Sheikh Eases Position, Meets with Opposition Leaders MOGADISHU, Somalia — In a country where political landscapes shift as swiftly as the winds, a remarkable scene unfolded as opposition leaders briskly walked through the gates of Villa Somalia. Their destination: a confidential meeting with President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud. Could this encounter herald a pivotal breakthrough in Somalia’s enduring political impasse? It certainly appears possible. The atmosphere surrounding this meeting is charged…

The Red Sea, a crucial lifeblood in global trade and maritime navigation, is more than a mere waterway; it represents an intricate tapestry of economic interdependence and geopolitical significance. Stretching across lands and cultures, it connects the Mediterranean Sea through the Suez Canal to the vast Indian Ocean. Each year, it bears witness to the passage of billions of dollars worth of goods—everything from oil and food to manufactured products—ultimately sustaining the very fabric of international commerce. However,…

Reactions from Somali Leaders Following Iran's Strike on Qatar's U.S. Base Garowe (AX) — In the unfolding tapestry of geopolitical tension, the recent missile strike by Iran on a U.S. military base in Qatar has stirred a profound response from prominent Somali leaders. Former presidents Mohamed Abdullahi Farmaajo and Sharif Sheikh Ahmed have vocally condemned this act, asserting that it not only violates international law but also poses a significant threat to the…